worn away by arthritis and the bone destroyed.
Arthroscopy
“Arthroscopy” refers to any operation performed with an arthroscope, a very thin tube equipped with a light and a camera. An arthroscope enables a surgeon to operate through a tiny incision. Compared with traditional surgery, arthroscopy is usually less painful, rarely requires an overnight hospital stay, and also means a quicker recovery.
While the benefit of arthroscopic surgery to remove loose cartilage from the knee may be questionable, other arthroscopic procedures are undeniably helpful. For example, surgeons also use an arthroscope to examine a joint, repair torn cartilage or tendons, and remove inflamed tissue lining your joints.
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Synovectomy
Every joint is lined with a smooth layer of tissue called synovium. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the synovium can become inflamed, causing pain and swelling. In some cases, surgeons can dramatically reduce the symptoms by surgically removing the inflamed synovium. (The operation can often be performed with an arthroscope.) Unfortunately, relief may not be permanent. After several years, the synovium may grow back and symptoms may return.
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Osteotomy
Bones that are slightly deformed or out of place can aggravate arthritis. In such cases, surgeons can move bones to a better position and shift some of the stress. The edges are fastened together with staples, screws, or plates. This procedure is most often performed on weight-bearing joints like the knee or hip.
Recovering from this kind of surgery is like recovering from a broken bone. You’ll have to wear a cast or brace while it heals, and use crutches or a cane to walk. After two or three months, you may work up to more weight-bearing activities, like walking.
Resection
When arthritis damages bones in the foot, walking can be very painful. Removal (or resection) of the damaged bone often brings great relief because it keeps bones from rubbing against each other and gives joints room to move.
Arthrodesis (bone fusion)
In some cases, the best way to treat a joint is to remove it altogether. Surgeons do this by connecting the two bones that meet at the joint — ankles, wrists, and fingers can all be fused. The fused joint is obviously no longer flexible, but it won’t be painful either. Fused bones are also usually stronger than arthritic joints and can bear more weight.
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After any one of these surgeries, there’s a good chance you’ll be back on your feet in just a few weeks. But give yourself the extra time you need to recover. Watch for signs of infection, and seek immediate medical help if you have a temperature over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, pain that doesn’t go away with medication, or if you notice swelling, tenderness, or numbness in your limbs.
